Texas Instruments TLC5916IDR

Overview

TLC5916IDR from Texas Instruments is an 8-channel constant-current LED sink driver IC designed for precise LED current control in display and lighting systems. It delivers 3–120 mA per channel with ±3% inter-channel accuracy, supports 3.0–5.5 V supply, and features open-load detection, thermal shutdown, and 30-MHz serial interface - enabling reliable driving of parallel LED strings in video billboards and industrial signage.

For engineers reviewing the TLC5916IDR datasheet, TLC5916IDR pinout, TLC5916IDR application, or TLC5916IDR equivalent, key selection criteria include its single-R_EXT-set current programming, cascaded daisy-chain capability via SDO/SDI, OE-controlled blanking, and error status readback in Special Mode - all critical for high-reliability LED array control.

Technical Context

The TLC5916IDR integrates an 8-bit shift register, output latches, and eight independent constant-current sinks with internal regulation circuitry referenced to R-EXT. Its dual-mode operation (Normal Mode for data loading, Special Mode for error/status readback or current gain adjustment) is controlled by pulse-triggered transitions on OE(ED2) and level-sensitive LE(ED1).

It implements open-load detection per channel by comparing actual sink current against 50% of target current (I_OUT,Th = 0.5 × I_OUT,target), stores fault bits in an 8-bit error register, and shifts them out synchronously via SDO on CLK - enabling real-time LED health monitoring without external sensing components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOIC-16 (9.90 mm × 3.91 mm, body size nominal). RoHS-compliant, surface-mount, industry-standard footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED sink driver applications.

Compared with TLC5917IDR, TLC5916IDR omits short-circuit detection but retains identical open-load and thermal protection - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, non-safety-critical LED signage. Versus MAX7219CWG+, TLC5916IDR provides direct per-channel on/off control and externally adjustable current, offering greater flexibility for custom LED layouts.

Availability

TLC5916IDR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED video billboards, industrial control panels, and gaming machine UIs requiring stable component supply, long-term production continuity, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for TLC5916IDR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with decades of experience in LED driver innovation.

The TLC591x product line was engineered specifically for high-reliability LED display and general lighting applications demanding precise current regulation, fault diagnostics, and daisy-chain scalability - targeting signage, appliances, and entertainment equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED forward voltage supported by the TLC5916IDR?

The TLC5916IDR supports up to 20 V at its OUT0–OUT7 pins, allowing it to drive multiple LEDs in series - for example, up to six standard white LEDs (VF ≈ 3.2 V each) or eight red LEDs (VF ≈ 2.1 V each) per channel. This rating is independent of VDD and applies under normal operating conditions with proper thermal management.

How does the TLC5916IDR implement open-load detection?

The TLC5916IDR performs open-load detection by comparing actual sink current against a threshold of 50% of the target current (I_OUT,Th = 0.5 × I_OUT,target). Detection occurs only when a channel is actively enabled (OE low, latch bit = 1). The resulting fault bit is stored per channel and readable via SDO in Special Mode - no external components are needed.

Can the TLC5916IDR be used in daisy-chain configuration?

Yes, the TLC5916IDR supports seamless daisy-chaining: SDI of the first device receives serial data from the controller, and SDO of each device connects to SDI of the next. All devices share the same CLK and LE(ED1) signals. This allows expansion to dozens of channels using only three MCU pins (CLK, LE, SDI), with data propagating through the chain on each CLK cycle.

What is the role of the R-EXT pin on the TLC5916IDR?

The R-EXT pin on the TLC5916IDR connects to an external resistor tied to GND, establishing the reference current for all eight output channels. The output current per channel is calculated as I_OUT = 12.5 V / R_EXT, yielding 3–120 mA for R_EXT = 4.17 kΩ to 104 Ω. This single-point adjustment simplifies design and ensures matched current across all channels of the TLC5916IDR.

Does the TLC5916IDR support programmable current gain like the TLC5917?

No - the TLC5916IDR does not support the 256-step programmable global current gain feature found in the TLC5917. Its output current is fixed per R-EXT setting and cannot be adjusted dynamically via serial command. For applications requiring runtime brightness tuning or white balancing, the TLC5917IDR or alternative drivers with gain control must be selected instead of the TLC5916IDR.